Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek - 16 Days

  • Annapurna Circuit with tilicho lake trek
  • Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek
  • tilicho lake

Highlights

  • See more than 140 mountains and peaks
  • Incredible views of the Annapurna Himalayas reaching up to 8,167m/26,795ft
  • Visit Tilicho Lake 4,949m/16,237ft, the highest lake in the world
  • Cross the Thorang-La Mountain Pass at 5,416m/17,764ft
  • See authentic Himalayan settlements like Manang
  • Explore around the Muktinath Temple
  • A scenic short flight from Jomsom to Pokhara
  • Duration16 Days
  • Max. Altitude5416m
  • Trip GradeStrenuous
  • Group Size1 - 10
  • Meals Breakfast in Kathmandu/Pokhara & Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner during the trek
  • Accommodation3-star Hotel in Kathmandu/Pokhara, Best Available teahouse during the trek

Overview

Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake trek takes you around the amazing Annapurna Massive from west to east! Guiding you through this Himalayan landscape is one of High Route Adventure’s passions. This incredible trekking in Nepal has long been a favorite amongst nature lovers and mountaineers. And no wonder when you get to see around 140 different peaks and mountains from up the Annapurna Himalayas!

Furthermore, this scenic trek in Nepal’s Annapurna Himalayas takes a trip to Tilicho Lake (4,949m/16,237ft), the world’s highest lake! That’s not all, during this trek you’ll also cross Nepal’s highest mountain pass Thorang-La 5,416m/17,764ft. As well, as entering the Annapurna Conservation Area, which is filled with a diversity of fauna and flora, such as the red panda and the elusive snow leopard! Getting excited? Embark on this amazing trek, and see the best of the Himalayas with High Route Adventure.

What can you expect?

The Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake trek consists of a ready-made package with a carefully made itinerary of 17 days. While the actual trek has 10 days of trekking, including one rest day at Manang for acclimatization, this trek can be made longer by combining it with the Manaslu Circuit Trek, the Nar-Phu Valley trek, or even the Annapurna Base Camp trek. Following the standard trekking route of the Annapurna Circuit, this trek takes a different route from Manang and heads to the famous world’s highest lake, Tilicho Lake.

This route adds 3 additional days and heads via Siri Kharka and Tilicho Base Camp to Tilicho Lake. After visiting Tilicho Lake, a mostly downhill trek goes back to Siri Kharka from where it will continue back on the Annapurna Circuit by heading to Yak Kharka. During this trek, no camping is required, and High Route Adventure chooses the best available guest or teahouses during the trek.

Famous mountains to look out for while trekking are; the Annapurna mountains I to IV reaching up to 8,091m/26,545ft, Mt Dhaulagiri 8,167m/26,795ft, Mt Manaslu 8,163m/26,781ft, Mt Gangapurna 7,455m/24,459ft, Pisang Peak 6,091m/19,984ft and Tilicho Peak 7,134m/23,406ft. These are just a few that can be seen amongst all the other mountains and peaks on the trek! Average trekking hours per day are between 5 and 6 hours, going downhill and uphill with a few steep parts.

The trails are well maintained and for the most part comfortable to trek, as well as the guesthouses. Considered one of the best treks in Nepal it is best done during the spring or fall/autumn seasons, as then the weather will be at its best, and you’ll have the most chances to see the most mountains!

Culture, high altitude mountains over 8,000m/26,247ft, authentic Himalayan villages, a visit to the highest lake in the world Lake Tilicho 4,949m/16,237ft, and of course the crossing of Nepal’s highest mountain pass Thorang-La 5,416m/17,764ft. Book today with High Route Adventure on the Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake trek, and get the holiday that you deserve!

Is this trip the right fit for you?

  • The trek takes 16 days and involves walking 4-7 hours most days on mountain trails. It can be challenging with high altitude, cold weather, and basic accommodation.
  • The trek has extreme cold and wind in higher areas. Temperatures often drop below freezing at night. Be prepared with proper layered clothing and gear.
  • Basic tea houses provide lodging and meals. Expect simple rooms with just beds and shared bathrooms. Comfort is very limited.
  • Pack proper hiking boots, trekking poles, warm layers, sun protection, first aid kit, snacks, flashlight, and documentation. Travel light with just essentials in a backpack.
  • The high altitude causes fatigue, nausea, headaches, and other health issues for some people. Take time to acclimatize and drink plenty of fluids. Descend if symptoms persist.
  • The trek goes through remote mountain areas with no roads, cell reception, or medical facilities for long stretches. Evacuations are difficult. Self-reliance in health and gear is a must.
  • Build extra days into your schedule in case you need to slow down or take a break. Have a flexible return travel ticket to accommodate delays.
  • For a shorter or easier Himalayan trek, consider Poon Hill Trek, Mardi Himal Trek, or parts of the Annapurna Circuit.

What makes this trip enjoyable for you?

  • The stunning mountain scenery of the Annapurna region is incredible to walk through. You are surrounded by some of the highest peaks in the world.
  • Crossing the high mountain pass of Thorong La (5416m) is a major accomplishment.
  • The calm, pristine blue waters of Tilicho Lake (4949m) are breathtaking and peaceful to enjoy.
  • Experiencing the varied culture and hospitality of local Nepali people in mountain villages is fascinating.
  • Trekking through diverse landscapes like lush green valleys, rocky cliffs, snowy trails, and sweeping views is rewarding.
  • Witnessing the sunrise glow on the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri peaks from Tilicho Base Camp is magnificent.
  • Interacting with other passionate trekkers from various countries adds a fun social element to the trip.

Recommended Read:

Itinerary

  • Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu

    • Pick up and meet & greet at the airport
    • Transfer to your hotel in Kathmandu
    • Quick meet & greet with our team
    • Trip preparation + briefing
    • Overnight stay at your hotel

    Traveler’s note: The airport is just a few minutes away from Thamel, the main touristic area of Kathmandu, where most of the hotels, souvenir shops, and restaurants are located. Try out the Nepalese MoMo, a traditional dumpling and a staple of Nepalese Cuisine!

    Altitude: 1350m/4498ft
    Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Day 02: Drive to Beshisahar

    • Hotel Breakfast and check out
    • Drive with a local bus to Beshisahar
    • Check-in at the teahouse
    • Explore around the market in Beshisahar
    • Dinner and overnight stay at the teahouse

    Traveler’s note: Did you know that the way to Beshisahar is mostly along the Trishuli River, up to Dhumbre. From there the road heads into the amazing Marshyangdi Valley!

    Altitude: 760m/2,493ft
    Meals: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
    Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Day 03: Drive to Chame

    • Teahouse breakfast and check out
    • Drive via 4x4 to Chame
    • Pass by Jagat
    • Pass by Chyamche (Chamje), Tal, and Dharapani
    • View of Annapurna II 7,937m/26,040ft on your left and on your right a part of the Manaslu Range
    • Check-in at the teahouse at Chame
    • Dinner and overnight stay at the teahouse

    Traveler’s note: Did you know that from the Kundi you can see some of the first views of the Manaslu Mountain Range, just south of Mt Manaslu you can see the Ngadi Himal 7,871m/25,824ft and the Himalchuli 7,893m/25,896ft. A bit to the left you get to see the Lamjung Himal 6,983m/22,910ft! Near Chyamche (Chamje) we get to see one of the longest waterfalls stretching about 202m/663ft! Just before reaching Chame we can see a part of the Manaslu mountain range on your right side, and on your left the first views of the Annapurna II 7,937m/26,040ft and Annapurna massif range.

    Altitude: (2,660m/8,832ft)
    Meals: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
    Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Day 04: Trek to Upper Pisang

    • Breakfast and departure
    • Start the trek by heading up to Bhratang
    • Pass by Dhikur Pokhari
    • Stop by Lower Pisang
    • Continue by crossing the Marsyangdi Khola River
    • Ascend from here to Upper Pisang
    • Dinner and overnight stay at the teahouse

    Traveler’s note: Did you know that there are two routes leading to Manang, our next day’s destination. The Upper and Lower Pisang route. We follow the Upper Pisang route as it promises the best views of Mt Annapurna and the Pisang Peak!

    Altitude: 3,300m/10,827ft
    Meals: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
    Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Day 05: Trek to Manang

    • Breakfast and departure
    • Head for the Upper Pisang trail
    • Pass by Ghyaru
    • Reach at Nyawal
    • Continue on to Braga
    • Visit Braga and Braga Monastery
    • Trek a bit further uphill to Manang
    • Dinner and overnight stay at the teahouse

    Traveler’s note: Did you know that that Braga has the biggest monastery in the whole Manang district? As you enter the Manang region you’ll quickly notice a dryer and colder climate!

    Altitude: 3,500m/11,286ft
    Meals: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
    Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Day 06: Rest day at Manang

    • Breakfast
    • Acclimatization hike
    Option 1: hike to Bhojo Gumba
    Option 2: hike to Gangapurna Lake
    • Dinner and overnight stay at the teahouse

    Altitude: 3,500m/11,286ft
    Meals: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
    Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Day 07: Trek to Siri Kharka

    • Breakfast and departure
    • Trek via the western gate down the river
    • Cross the river and continue along its southern bank
    • Pass by Kangsar Village
    • Continue uphill to Siri Kharka
    • Dinner and overnight stay at the teahouse

    Traveler’s note: Did you know that while trekking to Siri Kharka you get to see views of the Gungang Himal and Mt Chulu!

    Altitude: 4,060m/13,320ft
    Meals: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
    Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Day 08: Trek to Tilicho Base Camp

    • Breakfast and departure
    • Head for Tilicho Base Camp
    • Follow the narrow trails leading gradually up to Base Camp
    • Dinner and overnight stay at the teahouse

    Traveler’s note: Did you know that before reaching Tilicho Base Camp we pass by a landslide area, trek with caution and always listen to safety advice from your High Route Adventure trekking guide!

    Altitude: 4,140m/13,583ft
    Meals: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
    Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Day 09: Visit Tilicho Lake (4,949m/16,237ft) + trek back to Siri Kharka

    • Breakfast and departure
    • A steep climb starts the day off
    • Follow the side of the mountain until reaching an incline
    • Visit Tilicho Lake
    • Retrace back all the way down, back to Siri Kharka
    • Dinner and overnight stay at the teahouse

    Traveler’s note: Did you know that Tilicho Lake is the highest lake in the world and that there are no known aquatic lifeforms in the lake! Particularly special to Hindu’s is that Tilicho Lake is mentioned in the Ramayan Saga of the Hindu’s Sanskrit Holy text book

    Altitude: 4,060m/13,320ft
    Meals: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
    Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Day 10: Trek to Yak Kharka

    • Breakfast and departure
    • Retrace back downhill to Khangsar
    • Continue on to the Thorang Khola Valley
    • Ascend further to Yak Kharka
    • Dinner and overnight stay at the teahouse

    Traveler’s note: did you know that Khangsar is only populated during festival times when yak herders gather for the festivities! Today’s views are incredible and you’ll quickly notice yak herds grazing in the valley.

    Altitude: 4,110m/13,484ft
    Meals: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
    Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Day 11: Trek to Thorang Phedi

    • Breakfast and departure
    • Trek uphill towards Thorang Phedi
    • Pass Ledar village and ascend furthermore
    • Traverse through towering cliffs to reach Thorang Phedi
    • Explore around Thorang Phedi
    • Dinner and overnight stay at the teahouse

    Traveler’s note: Today you can enjoy the views of Mt. Gundang, Mt. Syagang, Thorung Peak, and Mt. Khatungkan among others!

    Altitude: 4,600m/15,092ft
    Meals: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
    Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Day 12: Trek to Muktinath via the Thorang-La Pass (5,416m/17,764ft)

    • Breakfast and departure
    • Head up to the Thorang La pass, one of the highest passes in the world
    • Cross the mountain pass from east to west (Manang to Muktinath)
    • The trail becomes more barren and the landscape becomes more of a Wild West
    • Continue on the downhill to Muktinath
    • Arrival in Muktinath
    • Dinner and overnight stay at the teahouse

    Traveler’s note: Did you know that the Thorang-La Pass is one of the highest mountain passes in the world! Muktinath famous for its Temple with 108 water sprouts is said to have a healing and cleansing effect to all who take a dip in its holy water. This pilgrimage site is visited a whole year long by both Hindus and Buddhists.

    Altitude: 3,800m/12,467ft
    Meals: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
    Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Day 13: Trek to Jomsom

    • Breakfast and departure
    • Visit the Muktinath temple with its 108 water sprouts
    • Start to trek by descending downwards
    • Head to the Kali Gandaki River to reach Kagbeni
    • Follow the Kali Gandaki river southwards to reach Jomsom
    • Dinner and overnight stay at the teahouse

    Traveler’s note: Did you know that Kagbeni and Jomsom are famous for their apple orchards, depending on the season you’ll get to see these apple trees in full bloom!

    Altitude: 2,670m/8,760ft
    Meals: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
    Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Day 14: Fly to Pokhara

    • Breakfast and check out
    • A morning flight takes us to Pokhara
    • Hotel transfer
    • Enjoy the amazing sights and activities in Pokhara
    • Overnight stay at the hotel

    Traveler’s note: While in this package there are no activities in Pokhara included, High Route Adventure is more than happy to arrange some for you, such as bungee jumping, paragliding, ultra-light flying, boating on Phewa Lake or a city sightseeing tour! Just request us during your booking.

    Altitude: 820m/2733ft
    Meals: Breakfast
    Accommodation: Hotel
  • Day 15: Drive to Kathmandu

    • Breakfast and check out
    • Transfer to the tourist bus park
    • Drive via tourist bus back to Kathmandu
    • Hotel check-in
    • Review of your trip
    • A complimentary farewell and thank you dinner is planned with a culture show
    • Overnight stay at your hotel

    Traveler’s note: It is also possible to fly back to Kathmandu, this will give you more time to spend back in Kathmandu as the flight just takes 25min, compared to the 6-hour bus ride.

    Altitude: 1350m/4498ft
    Meals: Breakfast
    Accommodation: Hotel
  • Day 16: Departure from Kathmandu

    • Breakfast and check out
    • Transfer to the Airport to your destination Home

     

Tailor Made Holiday

You can change the itinerary, services, accommodation, and duration of this trip to suit your needs, budget. The choice is your.  Let us help you tailor-make your precious Vacation.

Inclusion

What's included ?

  • Airport-Hotel-Airport Pick up & Drop up By Private Vehicle
  • Two nights' accommodation with B/B plan at 3- star category hotel in Kathmandu
  • A night accommodation with B/B plan at 3- star category hotel in Pokhara
  • Kathmandu to Beshisahar public transportation & Beshisahar to Chame by public Jeep
  • Jomsom to Pokhara flight
  • From Pokhara to Kathmandu by tourist standard bus
  • All standard meals during the trek (Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner)
  • Teahouse/Lodge accommodation during the trek (Twin sharing room)
  • Government lenience holder High Route Adventure experienced & qualified trekking guide(Leader) and Porter to carry trekkers luggage(2 trekkers: 1 porter)
  • Included their(guide & porter) meals, insurance, salary, lodging, transportation, and equipment
  • Annapurna conservation area project(ACAP) permit fee
  • TIMS fee (Trekkers information management system)
  • High Route Adventure appreciation of certificate after over the successful trek
  • Seasonal fresh fruit after dinner during the trek
  • Farewell dinner complete successful trip at the end of the trek
  • Local Sim card(if you needed)
  • An hour trekking massage after complete the trek
  • All government and local taxes

What's not included ?

  • Extra night accommodation in Kathmandu and pokhara in case of early arrival or late Departure
  • Dinner and lunch in Kathmandu and Pokhara
  • Wifi & Internet during the trek
  • All king of cold drink during the trek
  • Transportation by our private vehicle from Kathmandu to BesiSahar to Chame And Pokhara to Kathmandu can be extra cost for the round trips.
  • Nepal visa fee
  • Travel and medical insurance
  • International flights
  • Personal expenses(laundry, bar bills, phone calls, internet, hot shower, etc
  • Tips for guide, porter, and driver (tipping is expected)
  • Any unseen expenses due to circumstances

Notes

Accommodation in Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek

Two nights in Kathmandu is in a luxurious hotel, one night in Pohara, and twelve nights in teahouse accommodation on the Trek

Accommodations in Kathmandu, Pokhara, and on the path area unit this within the package price. You will be staying at 3-star deluxe hotels in Kathmandu and Pokhara located within walking distance from the major city and international airport. The hotels feature free Wi-Fi, clean air-conditioned rooms with clean bathrooms, a restaurant, an eating place, and a bar.

While trekking, twelve nights’ accommodation at the simplest offered teahouses. This area unit passes by native families, warm hospitality, and an area unit supply of sustenance for mountain communities. As this is a lovely new trekking route the teahouse offered basic facilities like a bed, shared washroom, and cozy dining room. You need to pay extra for using the Wi-Fi, mineral water, hot shower, and battery charging.

Accommodation is organized on a twin-sharing basis. If pressure group solo, you get to share the area with a fellow individual of constant gender. a private room is offered for the asking, at an additional price. It’s attainable to induce one area in Kathmandu, Pokhara, and at lower elevations while trekking. However, at higher elevations, their area unit few lodges and single rooms aren't offered during tourist season.

Meals served around Annapurna Region Lodge and Restaurants

In all treks including the Annapurna Himalaya region, good food is very important to keep all the members fit and healthy throughout the trip.

Meals are served in a large dining hall, some higher cold places furnished with the pot-bellied stove to keep the dining room warm and cozy. Items of foods can be ordered by choosing two types of a la carte or set menus, for a la carte with wide listed food and drink menu from Farmers, American or simple breakfast to Lunch, Dinner, and light snacks.

Most tourists standard average lodge, managed and run by family members including cooking, the menu is laden with popular and famous Nepalese meals, known as Dal-Bhat (boiled rice, lentil soup to add with mild seasonal vegetable curry), Continental, and Chinese to Tibetan with Indian as well Italian and Mexican dishes. In some good lodges on route trekking Korean and Japanese foods are also available.

Fresh meat products and items are rare in most areas of trekking, however in some lodges in a high country like Manang and Kaligandaki Valley, one can enjoy Yak steaks and other meat dishes. Fresh bakeries items are also available in major villages on route trekking.

Best time to visit Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek

Nepal, has four main seasons, namely spring (mid-February to May), summer as well the monsoon and wet times (June to August), autumn/fall (September to November), and winter (December to mid-February).

One can travel around Annapurna Himalaya nearly all months of the year, the best time is spring from March to May and autumn/fall to pre-winter seasons. Depending upon your choice of interest and destinations, likewise for a short moderate trek, one can visit during winter months also.

For treks that involve high passes of above 5, 000 m like Thorang-La Pass, on the Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake trek, winter times can be quite risky due to heavy snow on higher trails and at the pass.

Springtime and autumn/fall, are the peak season for treks and other adventures around Nepal Himalaya, including the Annapurna region. The other best time is autumn/fall which is also a high season.

Symptoms of Altitude Sickness

The symptoms of altitude sickness include dizziness, nausea, difficulty in sleeping, fatigue, and headache. You can also experience loss of appetite, rapid pulse, and shortness of breath. If you feel any of the mentioned sicknesses then immediately inform your tour guide or someone responsible and start climbing down to lower altitudes if you can.

The symptoms can have varying effects on different people. The most commonly felt symptom is shortness of breath. So, be mindful and keep out of these symptoms.

Trekkers joining Annapurna Circuit need to take precautions as it involves high altitude walks, walking at a slow pace with plenty of short rest with acclimatization days at certain heights, our guide and as per the itinerary will advise and inform you regarding rest days, like in Manang at 3,600 m or any other high places, where rest day will be necessary before heading higher ground.

Preventive measures against AMS using Diamox or Acetazolamide tablets as per your doctor and guide advice. The major problem is when one catches symptoms of HACE (High Altitude Cerebral Edema) which is water in the brain and HAPE (High Altitude Pulmonary Edema), a symptom with some water in the lungs. Where the victim needs rescue or immediate evacuation for proper medical treatment.

Entry permit & Requirement

All trekkers require to obtain trekking permits known as TIMS (Trekking Information Management Service), for the Annapurna region. Issued and controlled by TAAN (Trekking Agent Association of Nepal).

Entry Permits TIMS will be collected by your guide from High Route Adventure, associated as well lifetime member of TAAN.

The entry permits TIMS, will be kept by your guide as it needs to be registered at every check-post in major villages on route trekking.

The TIMS card will be handed to you at the end of the trip, as a good memorable souvenir of the treks. The other permit required is the ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Project) entry fee ticket, which will be obtained by the company in Kathmandu, or at the first entrance of the ACAP check post. These are the main entry permits required on a trek around the Annapurna Himalaya region. The permits are important to ensure and safeguard all trekkers from safety, especially for individual or solo trekkers if they are lost this will help to track the missing person on route trekking.

To get the permits you need to provide the following documents and information

  • Copy of your passport
  • 2 Passport-sized photos
  • Dates when your trek starts and ends
  • Itinerary/route
  • Entry and exit points
  • Emergency Contact Information (local and home countries)
  • Travel Insurance Details

 

FAQs of Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek

  • How difficult is the Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake trek?

    The Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake trek is considered a moderate trek. If it’s your first time trekking in the Himalayas you might want to pre-fitness and build up a healthy stamina level before undergoing this trek. More experienced trekkers will find the Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake trek relatively easy as the trek has few steep climbs and well maintained trails!
  • Do I need oxygen on the Annapurna circuit trek with Tilicho Lake?

    The highest point of the trek is at the crossing of the Thorang-La Pass at 5,416m/17,764ft. You do not require additional oxygen at that level, but should always be aware of AMS, Acute Mountain Sickness. Take your time and don’t ascend too much in one time!
  • What are the first symptoms of altitude sickness?

    The first clear symptoms of altitude sickness, also known as AMS are; Insomnia (sleeplessness), Increased fatigue, Headaches, Stomach cramps. When you notice any of these symptoms you are required to directly inform your High Route Adventure trekking guide. This way he/she can devise a plan to prevent, hopefully, cure by descending further down and in worse cases evacuate you for your safety!
  • Can I cancel this trip, and do I get my refund or can I postpone my trip?

    If you wish to cancel your trip with High Route Adventure after having paid the full amount only 20% of the total trip will be reimbursed. In case of postponing a trip, you’ll need to state the reasons clearly and a small administrative cost will be added. For further info on this section please check out our terms & conditions page that you can find in the footer.
  • Is my trip departure guaranteed?

    High Route Adventure guarantees every trip, but is not liable in case of natural, or political disasters. In such cases High Route Adventure can postpone your trip or offer an alternative similar to your booked destination and price!
  • Is Tilicho Lake the highest lake in over the world?

    At the height of 4,949m/16,237ft above sea level, Tilicho Lake is the highest lake in the world! The lake has no aquatic lifeform and is accessible via Thorang Base Camp. High Route Adventure takes you there during the Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake trek.

Related Packages

You may like these packages too !
Annapurna Circuit Trek
Trekking in Nepal

Annapurna Circuit Trek

Everest short trek
Short Treks

Everest Short Trek

Chisapani Nagarkot Trek
Short Treks, Trekking in Nepal

Chisapani Nagarkot Trek

upper mustang trek
Trekking in Nepal

Upper Mustang Trek

Annapurna Base Camp
Trekking in Nepal

Annapurna Base Camp Short Trek

Annapurna sunrise & Everest view trek
Trekking in Nepal

Everest Annapurna Short Trek

Our Partners

We are associated with

Sister Company